Matrix Expansion and Syncytial Aggregation of Syndecan-1+ Cells Underpin Villous Atrophy in Coeliac Disease
Figure 2
Staining density for glycosaminoglycans within (a) epithelium and (b) lamina propria, in coeliac disease mucosa in comparison to controls.
Sulphated GAGs, heparan sulphate proteoglycans (HSPG) and short chain heparan sulphate proteoglycan “stubs” (Δ-HSPG) are shown for both epithelial and lamina propria compartments, while the core protein for epithelial proteoglycans (syndecan-1) is shown for the epithelial compartment alone. Epithelial expression of heparan sulphate and sulphated GAGs is reduced in coeliac disease compared to controls, whereas the core protein syndecan-1 is maintained. Within the lamina propria the density of expression of heparan sulphate and sulphated GAGs is maintained similar to controls. Values shown represent means plus 95% confidence intervals. While the units displayed are derived from reciprocals of initial measurement minus background, statistical comparisons were made on unmodified initial measurements, as previously reported 21. Symbols: Significant difference between coeliac and controls: * p<0.05, ** p<0.01, *** p<0.001.